Do you remember your first day at school? Or the nerves you got when you first met your university class? The reason these memories stay so clear in your mind is that they were stressful and full of unknowns. However, despite all of those feelings of uncertainty, you survived those experiences - probably even thrived in those environments!
Job interviews are no different, you place so much pressure on yourself and this can be helpful. However, if these nerves get out of control you could be in trouble.
Here are our Top Tips for controlling those interview nerves:
- Use those nerves - Use the energy to sharpen your thinking and engage your brain by focusing on what the interviewer is asking.
- Interviewers expect them - You know the interviewer is expecting some nerves, so don't let them become uncontrollable. It’s okay to be nervous.
- Arrive early - This will stop you from being flustered by rushing to make the interview. It makes an excellent first impression and gives you time to compose yourself and mentally prepare for the interview.
- Posture - Sit attentively and don’t fidget too much, can disguise some of your nerves. Sit upright and rest your hands on the table. Keep an eye out for our next ebook on interview body language.
- Take time with your answers - It’s okay to think about a question or ask for clarification. Breathe and take a moment to plan your answer.
- Remember the interviewer is on your side - You were invited to the interview, so the interviewer already knows you have what it takes for the role. It is just about you selling yourself and showing how you can fit into their company
- Prepare for the interview - Review the job description, hiring criteria and your application. From this, you can start to imagine the questions you are likely to be asked and you can plan some outline answers. These answers don’t need to be fully formed but carry the themes and callouts you want to cover.